Android SDK is a self-explanatory software development kit that provides developers the API libraries, as well as the developer tools required to build, test and debug applications for Android devices.

Helps you develop, test and deploy Android apps

Unexperienced Android developers are recommended to download the Android Developer Tools (ADT) bundle that includes the necessary Android SDK components along with a version of Eclipse IDE with built-in ADT designed to streamline your app development.

The ADL bundle features Eclipse+ ADT plugin, Android SDK Tools, Android Platform-tools, a version of the Android platform along with a version of the Android system image for the emulator.

Grab the entire package or only the SDK for the desired IDE

Moreover, if you prefer to use Android SDK with existing versions of Eclipse or other IDE, you have the option to download the stand-along Android SDK Tools. The Android SDK comes with a comprehensive set of developer tools that include libraries, handset emulator based on QEMU, a debugger, sample code, documentation and tutorials.

Although Eclipse is the only officially supported IDE, IntelliJ IDEA, as well as NetBeans IDE fully support Android development. Moreover, you are allowed to use the desired editor to modify Java and XML files, and use command line tools to create, build, deploy and debug Android applications and control attached Android devices.

The best part about Android SDK is that enhancements of all kind are easily implemented in the overall platform development. On top of that, previous versions of the Android platform are also supported, fact that allows developers to create applications for older devices as well.

Since all development tools are downloadable components, you can easily download the latest version of the platform along with older platforms and tools in order to perform compatibility tests.

Android SDK was reviewed by George Popescu, last updated on December 19th, 2014